EPK (Electronic Press Kit)

Following a life-long desire to sing and perform, Debra Cowan left her job as a California middle school math teacher in 1997 and went to live in Edinburgh, Scotland for six months. There she learned the art of un-accompanied singing and upon her return to the USA in 1998 began traveling all over New England performing at any open mike within 100 miles of her new home in Springfield, Massachusetts. Almost twenty years later, she is now a full-time performer who bridges the old and new with a refreshing stage presence. She has released five full-length recordings, all of which have earned praise on both sides of the Atlantic. She tours extensively in the United Kingdom and in North America and can also be seen on stage with her good friend, singer and musician John Roberts. Debra is a proud member of American Federation of Musicians Local 1000 and endorses Harvey Leach guitars. Between travels, she makes her home near Worcester, Massachusetts with her husband and their cats, Hazel and Haku.

Listen to Live Tracks

The first three songs were recorded live on WFMT’s “Folkstage”, hosted by Rich Warren and recorded on September 1, 2013. These tracks are un-edited. The others are live tracks from various performances.

What Others Say

“We don’t take risks at Songbird Sanctuary, but we hosted Debra Cowan without seeing her first, against our number one rule. It was the best hosting decision I ever made, and if you don’t believe me, ask our audience who sang on every song.” – Tom Yeager, Songbird Sanctuary House Concerts, Houston TX

“Debra really connects with all around her; a capella or accompanied on guitar, she uses her natural magnetism and fabulous, warm alto voice to drive home both traditional and written material…” -Mick Tems, Folk Wales, UK

“…a wonderful voice ….Debra has a great voice and a great feel for her material”
-Mike Harding, host, “The Mike Harding Folk Show” podcast (UK)

“…a pleasure to hear a real singer who can apply her beautiful voice to the best material available from traditional songs to those by contemporary songwriters. She sure knows how to interpret a song and wrap her soul and voice around it.”
– Rich Warren, host, “Midnight Special”, WFMT 98.7 FM, Chicago, IL

“She was the meanest teacher in the school!”
– former middle school math student